Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Mar 1991

Vol. 406 No. 4

Written Answers. - Resource Teachers.

Seán Ryan

Question:

26 Mr. Ryan asked the Minister for Education if she will give details of the resource teachers funded by the Downs Syndrome Association for integration projects; if her attention has been drawn to reports that the resource teacher who visits St. Oliver Plunkett's national school, Malahide, County Dublin will be discontinued from June 1991 because of a lack of funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Mrs. O'Rourke)

My Department do not have details of resource teachers funded privately by the Downs Syndrome Association for integration projects.

I am aware of the association's current difficulties in pursuing its excellent work on behalf of downs syndrome children.

As the Deputy will know, additional teaching resources have become available under theProgramme for Economic and Social Progress. My Department are at present considering how best to apportion these resources. The needs of children with disabilities, including those suffering from downs syndrome, will form an important part of this consideration.